Lodging: Ashley Hotel & Suites (Los Alamos)
Los Alamos has limited hotel choice compared to nearby Santa Fe and what hotels do exist cater toward engineers working in the famous Los Alamos National Laboratory. I chose to spend one night here because I knew I wanted to try getting to Bandelier National Monument early in the morning and valued getting an extra 30 minutes sleep over staying in more "glamorous" Santa Fe.
I was hoping to get a deal on Priceline but Los Alamos apparently doesn't need to resort to rock-bottom pricing to get customers into its hotels...despite the disbelief from most people that I would actually choose to stay in Los Alamos, this hotel was completely full when I arrived.
Even at full price, Ashley Hotel & Suites was perfectly reasonable. It's a former Quality Inn so it's up to the usual standard. I booked a double room for $59 online but was able to request a king room on arrival. The hotel offers free wireless internet in the rooms for the undoubtedly many business travelers who need it, but also offers a computer in the lobby with free access. Hotel rates also include free breakfast. When I left at 6AM it was only pastries, coffee and juice but it's possible later in the morning other items are set out.
The room was very comfortable, especially the king bed. TV had every channel I could possibly want. The shower had amazingly powerful water pressure, but the showerhead was oddly low...and I'm 5'3" thinking that. Sort of strange positioning.
In New York this rate might indicate lack of 24-hour reception, but luckily for me and my early-rising schedule this weekend, the staff was friendly and alert at all hours. Small Los Alamos doesn't offer much choice by way of hotel location, but I found Ashley Hotel & Suites to be convenient enough for heading out to sunrise spots. Even though there's not much to the town itself, the surrounding area is gorgeous so it's nice to have an option closer than Santa Fe. I'm not sure when I'll head back to Los Alamos, but I'd be happy to stay here again.